Ueberroth to Rule on Wiggins Deal

The trade that would send San Diego Padre second baseman Alan Wiggins to the Baltimore Orioles for one or two minor leaguers has reached a last stage, needing approval by Commissioner Peter Ueberroth and the two league presidents to be final, sources said Wednesday.

Ueberroth, who is said to be involved only because of Wiggins past involvement in drugs, is expected to approve the deal. The league presidents have to approve the contractual language.

Tuesday, the trade had been delayed because Oriole lawyers had to discuss it with Oriole front-office personnel. Wednesday, however, the Oriole front office was said to be satisfied with the new contractual language, which states that Baltimore will pick up Wiggins’ entire four-year, $2.8 million contract but has the right to release him if he suffers a drug relapse.

In the event of a relapse, Wiggins would forfeit one-third of his remaining guaranteed contract, and if the relapse occurs in his first year with Baltimore, the Padres would be responsible for approximately 50% of his remaining contract. In the second year, in case of a relapse, San Diego would be responsible for 25%, and in the third year 10%. In the fourth, the Padres would have no obligations.